The Detroit Lions are entering the offseason after an underwhelming campaign that ended with a 9–8 record, a last-place finish in the NFC North, and no playoff appearance. That outcome marked a sharp contrast from the powerhouse performance the team delivered just a year earlier.

As Detroit looks to reset, major changes on the offensive side of the ball may be looming.

Significant Offensive Shake-Up Possible in 2026

Following the unexpected retirement of offensive lineman Dan Skipper, Lions fans are now facing the possibility of losing another key contributor. For the last three seasons, Detroit has boasted one of the league’s most effective running back tandems, but that dynamic could soon be altered.

Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery have been a nightmare for defenses under head coach Dan Campbell, providing a lethal one-two punch out of the backfield. Despite their success, signs suggest the partnership may be nearing its end.

Montgomery signed a two-year, $18.25 million contract extension in 2024, but Detroit could choose to release the veteran running back using a post–June 1 designation. Doing so would create salary cap relief of approximately $6 million in one year and $9 million the next.

Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine recently noted that while Montgomery has been productive, his role has steadily diminished as Gibbs continues to ascend. Montgomery logged just 158 rushing attempts in 2025 — the lowest total of his career — despite appearing in all 17 games.

Meanwhile, ESPN’s Dan Graziano projects Gibbs as a candidate for a massive extension, potentially landing a four-year deal worth around $80 million. That kind of investment would likely force Detroit to make tough financial decisions elsewhere on the roster. Gibbs clearly separated himself as the featured back in 2025, finishing with 243 carries for 1,233 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Such a move would send shockwaves through the NFC North and could open the market for another team to pursue Montgomery. League-wide chatter around this scenario has already begun gaining traction.

Montgomery remained productive last season, averaging 4.5 yards per carry while totaling 716 rushing yards and eight touchdowns. He also contributed as a receiver, hauling in 24 passes for 192 yards.

Gibbs, on the other hand, delivered elite all-around production. He rushed for 1,223 yards and 13 scores on 5.0 yards per carry, added 77 receptions, and generated 616 receiving yards with five touchdowns.

From a football standpoint, keeping Montgomery makes sense. His physical running style complements Gibbs perfectly, and his ability to block and catch adds flexibility to Detroit’s offense. Retaining both backs would allow the Lions to maintain unpredictability and balance.

Still, salary cap limitations may ultimately dictate the decision. With finances tightening and major extensions on the horizon, Detroit faces one of its most intriguing offseason dilemmas. Even after a down year, Campbell’s Lions have proven they’re capable of competing with anyone — but how they manage this situation could define their next chapter.